External risk intelligence

Zyxel Firewall Directory Traversal Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2024-11667

A directory traversal vulnerability affects Zyxel firewall web interfaces, allowing attackers to upload or download files via crafted URLs. This exposes systems and data to unauthorized access or modification, posing a significant business risk. Organizations should address this to protect network infrastructure.

5Halo Surface Signal

Path Traversal

Zyxel Zld

5.00 to 5.385.10 to 5.38

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2024-11667

The vulnerability affects the web management interface of firewalls and security appliances. These devices are designed to act as internet edge gateways and are commonly deployed with web-based management surfaces that are reachable from the public internet.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The web management interface of certain Zyxel firewalls is vulnerable due to a directory traversal flaw. This weakness allows an attacker to download or upload files by using a specially crafted URL. The potential impact includes unauthorized access to or modification of sensitive system files, creating significant business risk.

  • Vulnerable Zyxel firewall web interface
  • Allows file download or upload
  • Compromises system files and data

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

A directory traversal vulnerability affects the web management interface of certain Zyxel firewall models. This allows an attacker to manipulate a URL to upload or download files. The attacker can then gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or modify system configurations. This could lead to a compromise of the organization's network security.

  • Exposed web management interface
  • Unauthenticated network attacker
  • Crafted URL to upload/download files

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations utilizing vulnerable Zyxel devices. Attackers could potentially download or upload files by crafting specific URLs, impacting the integrity and confidentiality of data. The severity and widespread impact of this vulnerability warrant immediate attention to mitigate potential business disruptions.

  • Low skill level required for exploitation.
  • No authentication or network access needed.
  • High business risk and urgent attention needed.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

The identified directory traversal vulnerability impacts Zyxel firewall devices, allowing potential unauthorized file downloads or uploads through a crafted URL. This poses a significant business risk, as it could lead to data compromise or system manipulation by attackers. Organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability to protect their network infrastructure and sensitive information.

  • Identify exposed firewall assets.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate affected devices.
  • Apply vendor fixes and validate.
  • Monitor for related security incidents.

Frequently asked questions

What are Zyxel ATP, USG FLEX, and USG20(W)-VPN series devices used for?

These Zyxel devices, including ATP, USG FLEX, and USG20(W)-VPN series, function as firewalls and security appliances. They are typically used to protect networks by managing traffic, controlling access, and providing security services for businesses and organizations.

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2024-11667 in Zyxel devices?

CVE-2024-11667 is a directory traversal vulnerability (CWE-22) in the web management interface of affected Zyxel firewall devices. This means an attacker could trick the software into accessing files or directories they shouldn't be able to by manipulating a web address.

How can an attacker exploit this Zyxel vulnerability?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted URL to the device's web management interface. This crafted URL tricks the interface into downloading or uploading files, potentially allowing the attacker to access sensitive system information or modify configurations.

Who should be concerned about this Zyxel firewall vulnerability?

Organizations using the affected Zyxel firewall models should be concerned, especially if their web management interface is accessible from the internet. Halo Surface Signal indicates that devices like these firewalls, which often manage internet traffic, are very likely to have internet-facing management interfaces, increasing exposure risk.

What is the first step to address this CVE in my Zyxel environment?

The first step is to identify if you are running any of the affected Zyxel firewall models and firmware versions. If you are, it is recommended to reduce the exposure of the web management interface or isolate the affected devices while you prepare to apply vendor-provided fixes.

References